Recognising Excellence Through the Eyes of the Customer
In anticipation of the revised GCA Garden Centre Evaluation, a special initiative was launched to explore performance from a consumer perspective. Through a detailed mystery shopper program, independent garden centres were evaluated by everyday customers—some seasoned gardeners, others new to the world of plants.
Each centre was visited twice by independent shoppers, who used comprehensive evaluation forms to assess various departments. Interestingly, consumers applied a slightly less critical lens than internal evaluations, resulting in consistently high scores across the board.
Facilitated by ExperienceWorx, the results revealed close competition and ties in multiple categories. Final winners were selected based on a combination of scores and detailed shopper feedback.
We proudly share the results of this evaluation and extend our warmest congratulations to all participating centres for delivering excellent customer experiences.
Consumer’s Choice Garden Centre of the Year
Winner: Cape Garden Centre Somerset West
Runner-Up: Stodels NurseriesMilnerton
Second Runner-Up: Plantland Akasia
Departmental Awards
Best Indoor Section: Stodels Somerset West
Best Outdoor Section: Stodels Bellville
Best Checkout Experience: Plantland Akasia
Best Staff: Cape Garden Centre Somerset West
This initiative has provided valuable insight into what matters most to customers—great service, clean spaces, knowledgeable staff, and inviting environments. Well done to all centres who participated and continue to uphold high standards in retail gardening!